Your body's need for proper exercise and conditioning with endurance running doesn't fade away in the winter months, so why should you give it up due to the cold? Although the cold weather can be a deterrent for some runners, the winter season is one of the best times to enjoy a run outdoors. Thanks to the cool air, less crowded paths, the right endurance supplements and plenty of great winterized running gear on the market, there's no need to take a break. With a set goal and a few tips and tricks to help you make the best out of the cold weather, your running routine doesn't have to suffer this winter.
Know When to Run
If you're taking your run outside during a cold winter day, it's best to get your run in during daylight hours or preferably, the warmest part of the day. Take a chance to absorb some of that rare winter sunshine whenever possible to help motivate you and leave you feeling more accomplished when you finish.
Accessorize to Stay Warm
Dressing appropriately for the outside temperature can mean the difference between a successful run and defeat. Because you'll want to be warm without sweating too much, try dressing as if it is 20 degrees warmer outside. Layer with pieces that will help block the chilly winter wind gusts like pants and tops that work to wick moisture away from your skin and use hats, headbands, gloves and tights for the extra cold days.
Make Sure You Warm Up
Your winter warm up routine is crucial to hitting the pavement hard. Get your blood flowing indoors before heading outside by completing a few yoga poses, running up and down stairs, jumping rope or after you've completed a few household chores. With your body temperature up, heading outside won't feel as cold.
Put Safety First
Even when utilizing the daylight hours, there is a chance that you could start to lose visibility during your runs. Try running with a buddy or group of friends to help increase your visibility whenever possible. It is also a good idea to invest in reflective gear, as well as a headlamp or flashlight to help light your path.
Beat the Wind
Winter winds can be brutal when walking from your car to the gym, but when you're running they can stop you in your tracks. To beat the wind and complete your run, start on the trail by running into the wind and finish with the wind at your back. With this method, the wind will be less likely to blast you once you've broken a sweat.
Don't Miss Out This Winter
If the winter weather is simply too cold for you to get in your regular run, hit the treadmill and make it happen. For more winter exercise tips and information on our vitamin and supplements store to help properly fuel your workouts, be sure to visit ProLine Sports Nutrition online today!
Comments
You can follow this conversation by subscribing to the comment feed for this post.